Aston Villa vs Maccabi Tel Aviv Match Report
Maatsen and Malen Seal 2-0 Europa League Win Amid Protests
Aston Villa vs Maccabi Tel Aviv match report — Unai Emery’s side claimed a 2-0 Europa League victory at Villa Park on 6 November 2025, in a game played against the backdrop of pro-Palestine protests and heavy police presence. Over 700 officers were deployed and 11 arrests were made, but the demonstrations passed largely without incident as Villa secured an important win.
Slow Start, Bright Finish
On the pitch, Villa were sluggish early on and nearly fell behind when Dor Peretz fired straight at Emiliano Martínez from close range. But just before half-time, debutant Ian Maatsen opened the scoring with a sharp angled finish after a quick interchange involving Morgan Rogers and Jadon Sancho. The goal reflected Emery’s attacking blueprint — patient buildup play with precision in the final third.
Team News and Tactical Tweaks
Manager Unai Emery made five changes from the defeat to Liverpool. Jadon Sancho started, Ezri Konsa captained the side, and Victor Lindelöf, Maatsen, Lamare Bogarde, and Donyell Malen all came into the XI. Star striker Ollie Watkins began on the bench. Returning midfielder Youri Tielemans made an instant impact as a substitute, showing his trademark passing range and nearly setting up Malen for a second goal late on.
Malen Makes It Safe from the Spot
In the second half, Maccabi’s Peretz went close again before Konsa was brought down by Elad Madmon, earning a penalty. Donyell Malen calmly converted into the bottom corner — Villa’s first successful Europa League penalty of the season after misses by Watkins and Buendía. The strike lifted the mood at Villa Park and secured the points. Malen later forced a save from Roei Mishpati, but the hosts saw out the game comfortably despite late pressure.
Protests and Policing Outside Villa Park
The match took place amid pro-Palestine demonstrations and smaller counter-protests, leading to a significant police presence. Away supporters from Maccabi Tel Aviv were banned due to safety fears, leaving an empty visiting section. While tensions were evident outside, the game itself remained calm and controlled, highlighting Villa’s professionalism under scrutiny.
Unai Emery’s Reaction
Post-match, Emery acknowledged his team’s performance “was not brilliant” but praised their composure and discipline. He highlighted the importance of patience and European experience, noting Villa had faced similar challenges during their Conference League campaign. The victory moved Aston Villa to sixth in their Europa League group, boosting hopes of reaching the knockout stages.
What’s Next for Aston Villa?
Villa now turn their focus back to the Premier League, aiming to build on this European momentum. With Youri Tielemans fit again and Ollie Watkins expected to return to the starting lineup, the squad’s depth and adaptability were on full display. Though off-field protests dominated headlines, the night ultimately belonged to Villa, who delivered a crucial European win.
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